Muslim's gather to celebrate Eid Milad Un Nabi (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Muslim's gather at Tooting Leisure Centre to celebrate Eid Milad Un Nabi

3:30pm Tuesday 29th January 2013 in News By Alexandra Rucki

A lock of hair took pride of place as Muslim's gathered to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet of Islam.

The Eid Milad Un Nabi event took place in Tooting Leisure Centre, Greaves Place, on Sunday, organised by the Sunni Muslim Association (SMA).

About 1000 worshippers turned up to enjoy entertainment from Nasheed artists and Sufi music performance.

There were addresses from leaders including MP Sadiq Khan, Reverend Alan Gadd and Sufi scholar Sadaf Ali Shah.

Former MTV presenter Kristiane Backer, who converted to Islam, also spoke to visitors.

The holy relic of what some believe to be the prophet Muhammad's hair was on display to the public.

Iqbal Turk, chairman of the Sunni Muslim Association, said: "Feedback was excellent and performers really captured the hearts and mind of everyone especially the SMA Madressa children who were inspiring with their recitation of the holy Quran and Arabic poetry.

"The highlight of the day was the display of a relic of the Prophet of Islam."

Eid Milad Un Nabi is marked by large crowds of Muslims gathering in public to hear stories about the different aspects of the prophet's life